Latin American Festival, Birmingham 2010

Thousands of people are expected to descend on the city for the Latin American Festival

It's salsa time in the city with the 18th Birmingham Latin American Festival.

Founded in 1992 by Peruvian born Annie Bazan-De-Fisher, Birmingham's Latin American Festival has become a successful free annual event.

It's a great opportunity to have fun and learn about Latin American culture.

This year the festival takes place on Sunday, 4 July.

In 1978 when Annie Bazan-De-Fisher arrived in Birmingham from her native Peru she found that there was an absence of Latin culture.

Cultural harmony

A keen dancer and performer, Annie combined her studies and work with the promotion of the music and dance of Peru and Latin America.

Birmingham's Oya Samba Band take part in the festival each year

Her efforts paid off when the first festival took place, and over the years Annie has been recognised for the work she has done to promote Latin American culture.

Organising Birmingham's Latin American Festival has been a labour of love for Annie who puts her heart and soul into the festival: "We are very happy that Birmingham has opened its arms to Latin American culture," she said.

"Latin America embraces all cultures of the world. My passion keeps me doing this and the festival for me is my baby - it's even older than my children!

"It has a good atmosphere, lots of colour and a variety of food and culture - people enjoy it very much!" continued Annie.

"When the bands play people can't help but dance. The music touches the soul."

2010 fiesta

As always, there's masses of free entertainment lined up - with salsa and samba music and dancing, workshops, La Conga in the Square, as well as food and craft stalls.

National and international artists give a taste of Latin American culture

Latin bands and dancers based in the UK and from overseas will be entertaining the crowds on the day.

Annie continued: "Each year the second city goes Latin American crazy for the day. It is always a privilege to organise this friendly and colourful annual event.

"Once again we welcome everyone to come and join in the Fiesta! We'll bring the sunshine and the Latin spirit to Victoria Square, so please just bring along with you, the sombrero, the maracas and your smiles. Viva Latin America!"

• The Latin American Festival takes place in Victoria Square on Sunday, 4 July 2010, from 11am till 7pm.

For more details visit the ABS Latin website